New Frontier Minerals Limited announced encouraging metallurgical test results from bulk samples obtained from historical stockpiles at its Big One Deposit. The test work, carried out on 12 composite samples from the NWQ Copper Project in north-west Queensland, demonstrated that the deposit’s copper is highly amenable to conventional sulphuric acid leaching. Recovery rates ranged from 83.18% to 99.09%, with more than two-thirds of the samples exceeding 95%. The copper grades in selective grab samples varied between 3.9% and 11.85%, reinforcing the potential for near-term production using the established Mt Kelly Processing Plant operated by Austral Resources. The metallurgical studies simulated both heap and vat leach processing conditions and also noted some cyanide-leachable copper values above 10% in certain samples, indicating the presence of copper sulphide minerals such as covellite and chalcocite. Overall, low residual copper percentages (<1.2%) suggest minimal amounts of refractory copper that might otherwise complicate processing, further validating the compatibility of the Big One stockpile material with the existing flowsheet at the Mt Kelly facility. The announcement supports New Frontier Minerals Limited’s broader strategy by aligning with its Memorandum of Understanding with Austral Resources. Leveraging world-class infrastructure in Australia’s premier copper province, the company aims to fast-track production with a low-cost development pathway. Next steps are expected to include additional detailed metallurgical testing, progress on mining license applications and regulatory approvals, resource expansion through drilling, and a comprehensive work program in collaboration with Austral Resources. From a bullish perspective, the exceptionally high copper recovery rates and the strong technical indicators point to near-term production potential that could enhance cash flow and reduce capital expenditure risks. The strong alignment with an established processing facility and the company’s ability to utilize legacy stockpiles add to the positive outlook from an operational perspective. However, a bearish sentiment arises from the preliminary nature of these results. The company still faces the challenges of obtaining regulatory approvals and advancing additional metallurgical test work. Furthermore, market risks and execution risks inherent in transition from exploration to production continue to be considerations for cautious traders.